J-stroke

J-stroke

noun

A basic paddling stroke made typically from the stern of a canoe in which the paddle is drawn back and the blade is then turned outward at the end of the stroke in order to prevent the bow from veering off course.

Origin of J-stroke

From the shape of the letter J traced by the stroke when made on the port side

(canoeing) A paddling technique used by the sternman of a canoe that starts with a stroke perpendicular to the boat and ends with a hook behind the back of the boat. This forms a letter "J" when paddling on the right side of the boat. The technique is used to overcome the tendency of the boat to turn when paddling on one side and keep the boat going straight in the water.